Finding the perfect french fry in Chicago's vibrant Lake View neighborhood can feel like a treasure hunt. But fear not, fellow fry fanatics! This comprehensive guide dives deep into the crispy, golden world of Lake View's top 15 french fry destinations, ensuring your next potato craving is met with perfection. We've tasted, we've ranked, and we're ready to share our findings. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey!
The Crinkle-Cut Connoisseur's Choice: Top 5 Fries
These establishments aren't just serving fries; they're crafting a potato experience. Expect unique cuts, inventive seasonings, and unparalleled crispiness.
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The Purple Pig: Known for its upscale Mediterranean tapas, The Purple Pig's fries are surprisingly exceptional. Thick-cut, perfectly seasoned, and served with aioli, they're a must-try for elevated comfort food. Their secret? A blend of high-quality potatoes and a precise frying technique that results in a consistently crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
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Dimo's Pizza: While famous for its pizza, Dimo's fries are a hidden gem. Think perfectly crinkled, seasoned to perfection, with a slight hint of garlic. The crispiness is unmatched and their portion size is generous, perfect for sharing (or not!).
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The Violet Hour: This speakeasy offers a sophisticated atmosphere and equally sophisticated fries. Their unique seasoning blend elevates the humble potato to new heights. The thin, crispy fries pair perfectly with their extensive cocktail menu.
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Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!: This Spanish tapas restaurant offers a delightful surprise with their patatas bravas. While technically not "fries," these crispy potatoes with a spicy brava sauce are a must-have for any adventurous eater. The sauce's bold flavors perfectly complement the crispy texture.
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Hopleaf Bar: Hopleaf's commitment to quality extends to their fries, which are hand-cut and fried to golden perfection. Their simple yet effective preparation lets the potato shine, and the generous portion size will satisfy even the most ravenous appetite. They often feature seasonal specials, so check their menu for surprises.
The Classic & Casual Crowd-Pleasers: Next 5 Fries
These spots offer classic french fry experiences, prioritizing quality ingredients and consistent execution.
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Butcher's Tap: This gastropub offers a robust menu and equally impressive fries. Thick-cut and generously seasoned, they're a great accompaniment to their burgers and beers.
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Southport Grocery: This local favorite boasts a surprisingly excellent fry game. Their simple, well-executed fries are a testament to the power of quality ingredients and a simple approach.
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The Cubby Bear: This iconic Lake View bar delivers classic bar food, including their reliably crispy and satisfying fries. Perfect for enjoying alongside a game and a beer.
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Smoke Daddy: While known for BBQ, Smoke Daddy's fries shouldn't be overlooked. They offer a delicious complement to the smoky meats, providing a needed contrast in texture and flavor.
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Piece Brewery & Pizzeria: This popular spot offers a classic fry option, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. A perfect pairing for their extensive beer selection.
Beyond the Basics: The Unique & Adventurous Fries
These spots get creative with their fries, offering unique flavors and preparations.
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Big Star: While their tacos are renowned, Big Star's fries are worth a dedicated order. They offer a variety of toppings and sauces to customize your fry experience.
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Monteverde: This acclaimed Italian restaurant offers a more elevated fry experience, often incorporating unique flavors and seasonings.
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RPM Italian: Similar to Monteverde, RPM Italian showcases elevated fries in a refined setting, often creatively seasoned or paired with interesting dipping sauces.
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Summer House Santa Monica: This trendy California-inspired spot typically offers a unique take on fries, possibly featuring gourmet toppings or creative preparations. Check their current menu for their latest offerings.
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Andros Taverna: While known primarily for its Greek cuisine, Andros Taverna occasionally features fries as a side. Expect a simple, but well-executed preparation that complements their Mediterranean dishes.
Methodology and Considerations
This list is based on extensive research, personal taste testing, and online reviews. Individual preferences will vary, and new fry contenders emerge regularly in Lake View's dynamic culinary scene. Therefore, we encourage you to explore and discover your own personal favorites! Consider factors like your preferred fry cut (thin, thick, crinkle-cut), seasoning preferences (garlic, seasoned salt, etc.), and desired level of crispiness when making your selections.
Conclusion: Your Lake View Fry Adventure Awaits!
From classic comfort food to gourmet creations, Lake View's French fry offerings are incredibly diverse. We hope this guide serves as a launchpad for your very own french fry adventure. Happy frying!
